All the President's Men

The methods used by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein in their investigation of the Watergate scandal were highly effective and produced results.

Bernstein's aggressive and assertive actions were key in the investigation and eventual fulfillment of the story. His initial action of taking Woodwards article and polishing it is an example of the personality necessary for investigative journalism. Bernstein again proved his assertive and determined approach to journalism when he bypasses the sectary at an office in order to obtain a meeting that proved critical in completing the story before the New York Times. The methods and tactics of Bernstein were effective however in some instances bordered on unprofessional and aggressive. 

Bod Woodward the journalist who initially began the investigation for the Washington Post into Watergate has a noticeably different style. His ability to work the phones and illicit answers from interviewees plays to his advantage as it allows him to gain trust. This trust is evidenced through his contacts  with people such as Deep throat who provide him with critical leads and guiding information. His use of persistence separates him from the methods of Bernstein and in turn allows him to wear down tough sources and wade through long and tedious paper trails. The methods of Woodward were far more professional and equally as effective. 

Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein had differing methods yet together their styles allowed them to uncover the truth and break the story of Watergate.